About HS Code 701820
This highly specialized category covers minute glass spheres, each with a diameter not exceeding 1 millimeter. These microspheres possess unique properties such as high reflectivity, low density, chemical inertness, and excellent compressive strength, making them invaluable across a diverse range of industrial applications. They are critical components in sectors requiring precision, durability, and specific optical or physical characteristics. Key importers include manufacturers in the automotive (e.g., road markings), aerospace, medical (e.g., diagnostics), construction (e.g., lightweight fillers), and coatings industries. Exporters are typically specialized chemical or glass processing companies with advanced manufacturing capabilities. Critical aspects for trade include precise size distribution, surface treatment, refractive index, and material composition, which dictate their suitability for specific high-performance uses.
Products Under This Code
Reflective road marking beads, hollow glass microspheres, solid glass beads for grinding, medical diagnostic beads, filler for composites, retroreflective paint additives, blasting media
Real World Examples
3M Glass Bubbles, Potters Industries reflective beads, Krosaki Harima microspheres, Sovitec glass beads
Common Misclassification
Could be confused with 701810 if their decorative aspect is emphasized, though their primary use is industrial. Also, 392690 (other articles of plastics) if they are coated or embedded in plastic for specific applications.
Products Classified Under 7018.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Automotive & Vehicles industry.
Trade Overview
The USA, Germany, and Japan are leading producers and consumers of specialized glass microspheres for industrial applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 701820?
HS code 701820 covers: Glass microspheres; not exceeding 1mm in diameter. This highly specialized category covers minute glass spheres, each with a diameter not exceeding 1 millimeter. These microspheres possess unique properties such as high reflectivity, low density, chemical inertness, and excellent compressive strength, making them invaluable across a diverse range of industrial applications. They are critical components in sectors requiring precision, durability, and specific optical or physical characteristics. Key importers include manufacturers in the automotive (e.g., road markings), aerospace, medical (e.g., diagnostics), construction (e.g., lightweight fillers), and coatings industries. Exporters are typically specialized chemical or glass processing companies with advanced manufacturing capabilities. Critical aspects for trade include precise size distribution, surface treatment, refractive index, and material composition, which dictate their suitability for specific high-performance uses.
What products fall under HS code 701820?
Reflective road marking beads, hollow glass microspheres, solid glass beads for grinding, medical diagnostic beads, filler for composites, retroreflective paint additives, blasting media
What are common misclassifications for HS code 701820?
Could be confused with 701810 if their decorative aspect is emphasized, though their primary use is industrial. Also, 392690 (other articles of plastics) if they are coated or embedded in plastic for specific applications.
How is HS code 701820 structured?
HS code 701820 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (70) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (18) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.